Tragedy Strikes: Santri Found Embracing Quran in Pinrang Pesantren Fire
In a heartbreaking incident at Pondok Pesantren (Pesantren) DDI Patobong, Mattiro Sompe District, Pinrang Regency, South Sulawesi, a young santri named Muh Zahwa (14) was discovered dead, hugging the Quran, after being trapped in a fire on Wednesday, January 8, 2025.
The intense fire broke out at the boys’ dormitory of Pesantren DDI Patobong at around 1:00 PM local time on Wednesday.
Desperate Escape Efforts
As the flames engulfed the building, several santri studying at the pesantren rushed to save themselves. Some of them, aided by local residents, tried to extinguish the fire before the arrival of the firefighters. Unfortunately, by the time the fire brigade arrived, the fire had already spread extensively, making it challenging for the firefighters to control it.
After a strenuous effort, the combined forces of the firefighters and the locals managed to put out the fire around 3:30 PM local time.
Final Moments of Muh Zahwa
In a tragic turn of events, Muh Zahwa lost his life due to being trapped in the fire. According to Kasat Reskrim of the Pinrang Police, Iptu Andi Reza Pahlawan, Muh Zahwa was in the mosque praying Dhuhr when the fire broke out. Upon hearing about the fire, he rushed to his room to retrieve his clothes and Quran.
However, fate had a different plan. Despite managing to grab his Quran, Muh Zahwa got trapped in the room and was unable to escape the flames and smoke.
A Heart-Wrenching Loss
The loss of Muh Zahwa, a young student full of promise and dedication to his faith, has deeply saddened the community and left a void in the hearts of those who knew him. His bravery and unwavering commitment to saving his Quran, even in the face of imminent danger, serve as a poignant reminder of the strength and devotion that can be found in the most challenging of circumstances.
As the investigation into the cause of the fire continues, the memory of Muh Zahwa’s tragic demise will forever be etched in the collective consciousness of Pinrang and beyond, as a testament to the resilience and faith of one young soul whose light was extinguished too soon.
